First report of Paysandisia archon in Slovenia
The NPPO of Slovenia recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first record of Paysandisia archon (Lepidoptera: Castniidae – EPPO A2 List) on its territory. In November 2008, a sample was taken from a Trachycarpus fortunei plant which was showing decay of the terminal bud. The official laboratory of the Agricultural and Forestry Institute of Nova Gorica confirmed the presence of P. archon. This symptomatic plant was part of a plantation of 98 palm trees in which 13 other plants were also showing symptoms. Plants were 4 to 6 years old, raised from seeds and grown for ornamental purposes (cut foliage). This plantation was located in the western part of Slovenia, near a garden centre which was selling plants of Palmae originating from other EU member states. Other potential host plants in the garden centre and its surroundings were visually inspected but no symptoms could be found. The origin of the infestation remains unknown.
The pest status of Paysandisia archon in Slovenia is officially declared as: Transient, actionable, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Slovenia, 2009-01.